Microscope Slide Alignment for Consistent Sample Deposition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for preparing microscope slides lack consistency in sample positioning, which is crucial for automated slide processing.
Innovation Solution
A slide preparation apparatus with a fiducial mark, guide groove, and sample tube holder are aligned along a slide channel to facilitate precise sample deposition on the slide.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If hand preparation methods are used for microscope slides, then flexibility and adaptability are maintained, but consistency and precision of sample positioning deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus is divided into distinct functional components: a slide holder for positioning slides, a sample tube holder for securing sample tubes, a fiducial mark system for alignment, and a guide groove mechanism for needle positioning. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally while maintaining overall simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The fiducial mark serves as an intermediary reference element that mediates between the slide holder and sample tube holder, enabling precise alignment without requiring complex mechanical linkages. The guide groove acts as an intermediary guide that facilitates accurate needle placement relative to the fiducial mark.
2Productivity
If automated processing is implemented, then productivity and processing speed improve, but the complexity of the system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus performs preliminary positioning and alignment actions before the actual sample deposition. The slide is pre-positioned in the holder, the sample tube is secured in the holder, and the fiducial mark establishes the reference point beforehand. This allows automated systems to execute simple, repeatable deposition motions without complex real-time adjustment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide groove and fiducial mark system enable the apparatus to self-align and self-position components automatically. The physical geometry of the guide groove and the positioning features of the holders create self-contained alignment mechanisms that eliminate the need for external positioning systems or complex control algorithms.
3Measurement precision
If fiducial marks and guide grooves are added to the slide channel, then sample placement precision improves, but the complexity of the slide channel structure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fiducial mark and guide groove features are extracted from the main slide channel body and implemented as separate, discrete elements. The fiducial mark is positioned as a distinct reference feature, and the guide groove is formed as a separate guiding structure. This extraction allows for simpler manufacturing of individual components while achieving precise alignment when assembled.
Data Source
AI summary
Various examples are provided related to slide preparation. In one example, a slide preparation apparatus includes a support surface, an upper surface opposite the support surface, and a sample tube holder. The upper surface can include a slide channel extending to a stop, a fiducial mark disposed in the slide channel, and a support bar extending across the slide channel. The sample tube holder can secure a sample tube in a vertical position adjacent to an end of the upper surface adjacent to the stop. When a syringe is supported by a sample tube positioned in the sample tube holder, a needle of the syringe can be aligned with the fiducial mark when it is seated in a guide groove of the support bar.